Horizon Wind Energy, a division of Portuguese utility Energias de Portugal S.A., has selected Sargent & Lundy LLC to design the 345/34.5 kV substation for the first phase of the Pioneer Prairie Wind Farm project in northeastern Iowa.

The Pioneer Prairie Phase I substation will be connected to a new Alliant Energy/Interstate Power & Light 345 kV switchyard that will provide the interconnection to the existing Adams-Hazelton 345 kV transmission line, Horizon explains. The Pioneer Prairie Phase I substation will have provisions for the connection of a future transmission line from the planned Pioneer Prairie Phase II substation.

Sargent & Lundy's scope of work for the substation includes electrical and structural engineering, grading and drainage design, and support for procurement of major materials and equipment. Horizon adds that the Pioneer Prairie Wind Farm, expected to be in service by December 2008, is planned for an output of 300 MW.